First published in 1942, V&A Publishing, an imprint of the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, has recently reprinted this classic railway alphabet book so that it can find a new generation of delighted fans.
Author and illustrator Jack Townend’s lithograph illustrations, some black and white, some tinted with bold red, yellow and blue tones, will appeal to young train enthusiasts and offer a nice alternative to modern train picture books. The brief text for each letter explains the relevance of the picture from the Driver (the engine’s his pride), the Guard blowing his whistle and the Night-train running at speed to the Queue of people waiting for the late train and the Viaduct crossing the valley.
A Railway ABC is not only a charming vintage train book, it is also a nostalgic reminder of the endearing simplicity of children’s stories of the past. The book is from the V&A’s National Arts Library, which includes over 100,000 children’s books.
Title: A Railway ABC
Author/Illustrator: Jack Townend
Publisher: V&A Publishing, $10.99 RRP
Publication Date: May 2014
Format: Hardcover (with dust jacket)
ISBN: 978185177778
For ages: 3 - 5
Type: Picture Book
